College of Education and Professional Studies
Family Science
Master of Science | Graduate
Child Development and Family Science, MS—Family Science Specialization
You will develop skills in working with families from diverse backgrounds, promoting healthy family relationships, and advocating for policies that support family well-being.
Our Graduate Family Science Specialization is a comprehensive program designed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of family dynamics, child development, and the social and cultural factors that affect individual and family functioning. We emphasize a practical approach, with a strong foundation in theory and research. An advanced degree in Family Science shows that you have the expertise to better understand, strengthen, and empower families — skills that can be used in many roles including teaching, policy work, professional practice, and research.
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Child Development and Family Science
Michaelsen 100
You Belong Here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Child Development and Family Science Website
Core Courses
- CDFS 501 - Research Methods
- CDFS 502 - Statistics
- CDFS 532 - Family Interaction
- CDFS 534 - Therapeutic Applications of Child Development
- CDFS 547 - Families and Poverty
- CDFS 592 - Child Development and Family Science Practicum
- CDFS 595 - Graduate Research
- CDFS 700 - Master’s Thesis, Project Study, and/or Examination
Family Science Specialization
Required Courses
- CDFS 533 - Family Life Education
- CDFS 539 - Families and Public Policy
Department-approved Electives
- CDFS 503 - Family Communication
- CDFS 514 - Coping with Grief and Loss
- CDFS 536 - Diversity in Families
- CDFS 538 - Attachment Theory and Practice
- CDFS 582 - Curriculum Development
- IDS 405 - Essentials of Project Funding in the Social Sciences
Experiential Learning
All graduate students complete a 360-hour practicum/internship experience where you will gain experience in an agency that aligns with your professional goals.
Assistantships
Our department offers several opportunities for graduate students to teach entry-level Child Development and Family Science courses in close collaboration with a faculty mentor.
The Choice is Yours
You’ll have the opportunity to choose a capstone project that meets your professional goals with a thesis research project, an alternative project, or a comprehensive examination.
Original Research
You’ll have the opportunity to conduct a research study specific to your area of interest, which is especially valuable if you plan to pursue a PhD doctoral degree.
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Financial Aid
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Student Life
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Starting Salaries
Starting salaries range from $60,000-$90,000 per year.
Together
You’ll benefit from being part of a small cohort throughout the program, allowing for rich relationship-building in a supportive learning environment.
Face-to-Face
Family Science classes are offered in person, providing extensive hands-on learning opportunities in preparation for roles in the workforce or further education.
Why Family Science at Central?
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This program prepares you for leadership positions within organizations that serve families, such as non-profits and government agencies.
- Extensive hands-on learning gives you valuable experiences in the classroom and the community.
- Pursue a meaningful career that creates positive changes for people in stressful situations.
- Learn from experienced professionals dedicated to helping students achieve their goals and succeed in the field.
Career Pathways
Supervisory positions in social service agencies
Grant writing/academic research roles
Public policy consulting
Family liaison in schools
Mental health counseling
Substance abuse support programs